As part of the celebrations for the 175th anniversary of Switzerland’s railway system, the Swiss Rhaetian Railway (RhB) is launching an official attempt to set the record for the world’s longest passenger train, with ABB being one of the main partners for the world record attempt. A successful attempt will be entered into the Guinness Book of Records.
The world’s longest passenger train is expected to roll through the famous spiral tunnels along the route in the Swiss Alps regions of the Engadine and Graubuenden, and continue on via the iconic Landwasser Viaduct. During the ride, the train will need to overcome a 789-meter change in altitude. The 1910-meter-long train with 100 cars features 25 of the latest “Capricorn” Stadler-trains, which are equipped with energy efficient ABB traction technology enabling recovery of regenerative braking energy.
“ABB technology is key for this record attempt,” explains Rhaetian Railway CEO Renato Fasciati.” “We have an innovative but also very sustainable possibility to drive our train. We are very happy that we can do this world record attempt with ABB.”
“The world record attempt is a challenge for both people and machines and enables ABB to push the technological boundaries of sustainable transport,” says Edgar Keller, Managing Director Traction ABB. “We are delighted that our key technology is powering these trains, thus allowing us to offer rail transport a global stage as a key contributor to a sustainable future.”
“We have installed the most energy-efficient convertors which exist” adds Gil Fischer, ABB Head of Traction Sales & Service. “That makes us really proud that in a transportation system which is already ecologically friendly we can be even more friendly by being at the highest standard of energy efficiency.”
ABB technology contributes to efficient and safe operation not just inside the train, but also in the upstream energy chain. The Rhaetian Railway is taking vigorous steps to reduce its own ecological footprint. 100% of the energy the company uses is generated using hydropower. The infrastructure required to achieve these targets is equipped with key technologies from ABB and ensures a reliable, sustainable supply of electric power.
